Why Does London Have a Mayor and a Lord Mayor?

The title 'Why does London have a mayor' seems straightforward, but the answer is a bit more complex. Many major cities around the world have mayors, and some have mayors for broader regions. However, London is unique in that it has both a Lord Mayor and a Mayor, each with specific responsibilities that hark back to historical and modern governance structures.

Cities and Mayors

Typically, cities and towns around the world have mayors. For instance, cities like Ely, with its current mayor, Lis Every, have mayors who act as civic heads, leading the local government and representing the city. However, the roles and powers of these mayors are often ceremonial or may vary in terms of their direct governance powers.

In England and Wales, most towns and cities have mayors, but their roles can differ significantly. Some mayors are ceremonial positions awarded to long-serving city councillors, while others are directly elected officials with substantial governance responsibilities. This diversity in roles is part of the complex tapestry of local government in the UK.

London's Unique System

London stands out due to its dual mayoral system. The Lord Mayor of the City of London and the Mayor of Greater London both hold prominent positions, each with its own distinct role and responsibilities. The Lord Mayor is an ancient position, specifically tied to the historic City of London, often referred to as the Square Mile. The Lord Mayor is the highest authority after HM the Queen during significant events and ceremonies, highlighting its ceremonial significance.

In contrast, the Mayor of Greater London is a more recent role, established in 2000, with the primary responsibility of managing the strategic direction of the wider London area. This separation of powers and roles reflects the historical and modern developments of London's governance structure.

Historical Context and Reforms

One reason for the current dual mayoral system in London is historical. In 1986, the Conservative government abolished the Greater London Council (GLC), which had been the strategic planning authority for the region. The GLC often elected a Labour council, which led to a change in governance structure. Following this, key functions were delegated to the boroughs, leading to a fragmentation of local government responsibilities.

The new system, with both mayors, helps to address some of the governance gaps introduced by the GLC's abolition. The Lord Mayor of London, for example, oversees the City of London, a densely packed financial and commercial hub, while the Mayor of Greater London focuses on broader strategic issues affecting the entire city.